MY RAMBLINGS:

BASIC TECHNICAL INFO

The game is HTML5, which means that it runs in the web browser (no installation), and it is compatible with desktop and mobile environments. Due to my lazy lack of optimization, I would recommend that the game be played on an iPhone 5 or higher (or its Android equivalent), tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.

THEMATIC ELEMENTS

Saint Francis of Assisi’s brilliant iteration of praises (“the Canticle of the Creatures“) as well as Zeffirelli’s 1972 film Brother Sun, Sister Moon provided the inspiration for Friar Dude‘s graphical styling. The first three levels represent the “Brother Sun” aspect of the Canticle, while the final three levels represent “Sister Moon”. The falling obstacles represent five specific activities of the Capuchin Franciscans in my province (Capuchin Soup Kitchen, JPIC / Social Justice, Pastoral Work, reading, and studying). The falling collectibles represent rest (catching Z’s), the Holy Spirit (the dove + flames), and extra lives (heart).

The game demonstrates the major stages of Capuchin formation. The player moves from postulancy to novitiate to simple vows to perpetual vows and ends with a final sprint into the afterlife. This provided a basic “educational” element to the game. So many people ask me, “what is the process of becoming a friar?”. From now on, I can refer them to this game. Some friars have jokingly suggested that the game should be a screening process for incoming candidates.

At first glance, the game may seem a bit skewed. Why would ministries and activities destroy the player? It seems that the player is a manic sleep addict that wants to avoid Capuchin ministry at all costs. However, the context in which I created this game offers a much different perspective.

When I made this game, I was in a place where I was feeling overwhelmed and undernourished by ministry. Additionally, I was suffering from a lack of sleep. It seemed that some days were a harsh struggle to constantly avoid getting ‘wiped out’. The core personal theme of the game revolves around balance and self-care.

Since the development of the game, I have taken good steps in achieving a healthy balance in life. Additionally, I have supplemented my ministry in a manner that has given me adequate nourishment. All of the personal baggage aside, I hope that you greatly enjoy this silly little game! Please, leave a comment if you have any thoughts or questions regarding this release.